Targeting signal transducers and activators of transcription (STAT) in human cancer by dietary polyphenolic antioxidants

Electrochemical investigation of an anticancer drug 5-Fluorouracil in the presence of Theophylline using low-cost and disposable poly(GLY) modified pencil graphite electrode

Herein this study, a facile, efficient and disposable electrochemical sensor has been prepared by electropolymerization of glycine (poly(GLY)) on the surface of pencil graphite electrode (PGE). The surface topology of the equipped poly(GLY) modified pencil graphite electrode (poly(GLY)/PGE) and bare pencil graphite electrode (BPGE) has been characterized by the scanning electron microscopy (SEM) combined with energy dispersive x-ray analysis (EDX) and charge transfer behaviour was measured by electron impedance spectroscopy (EIS) method. The voltammetric behaviour of anticancer, 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) in the presence of theophylline (THP) has been carried out in 0.1 M phosphate buffer solution (PBS) of physiological pH 7.0 using different techniques such as cyclic voltammetry (CV), linear sweep voltammetry (LSV) and differential pulse voltammetry (DPV). The proposed poly(GLY)/PGE shows augmented peak current for 5-FU at lower potential side over the BPGE due to the electrocatalytic behaviour of modifier layers wrapped on the electrode surface. The kinetic behaviour of 5-FU at modified electrode surface was studied by varying different parameters such as pH, scan rate and concentration study in 0.1 M PBS used as a supporting electrolyte. The limit of detection (LOD) for 5-FU was attained using DPV method with different concentrations (1.0-13.0 μM) and it was found to be 0.012 μM. The possible electrochemical reaction of 5-FU was proposed and it was incorporated by two electrons and two protons mechanism at modified electrode surface. The voltammetric response of poly(GLY)/PGE towards the determination of 5-FU was unaffected in the presence of some excipients in addition to the remarkable stability and reproducibility. The applicability of the proposed sensor has been performed by real sample investigation of 5-FU with a substantial percentage of recovery results in all optimized conditions.

Navigating the Cytokine Seas: Targeting Cytokine Signaling Pathways in Cancer Therapy

Cancer remains one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide, necessitating continuous efforts to develop effective therapeutic strategies. Over the years, advancements in our understanding of the complex interplay between the immune system and cancer cells have led to the development of immunotherapies that revolutionize cancer treatment. Cytokines, as key regulators of the immune response, are involved in both the initiation and progression of cancer by affecting inflammation and manipulating multiple intracellular signaling pathways that regulate cell growth, proliferation, and migration. Cytokines, as key regulators of inflammation, have emerged as promising candidates for cancer therapy. This review article aims to provide an overview of the significance of cytokines in cancer development and therapy by highlighting the importance of targeting cytokine signaling pathways as a potential therapeutic approach.

A Review of Herbal Medicine-Based Phytochemical of Garcinia as Molecular Therapy for Breast Cancer

Data from globocan statistic in 2020 indicate that breast cancer has become highest incidence rate of cancer. Estrogen receptor (ER), progesterone receptor (PR) and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) are known immunohistochemistry (IHC) markers that mediate cell growth and survival signaling. Furthermore, regulator proteins, receptors, and their downstream signaling pathways have emerged as critical components in breast cancer formation and proliferation, and have become well-established therapeutic targets and the core focus of breast cancer therapy research. Garcinia is a big genus in the Clusiaceae family that contains a wide spectrum of biologically active metabolites for the chemical composition of their isolated fruits, stem barks, seeds, leaves, and roots, have resulted including polyisoprenylated benzophenones, polyphenols, bioflavonoids, xanthones, lactones, and triterpenes. This review article aimed to analyze the potential of Garcinia phytochemicals as a molecular therapy of breast cancer. The results showed that phytochemicals of Garcinia (i.e., α-mangostin, Cambogin, Gambogic Acid [GA], Garcinol, Griffipavixanthone, Friedolanostane triterpenoid, Hexane, Neobractatin, 7-Epiclusianone, xanthochymol - guttiferone E, and isoxanthochymol - cycloxanthochymol) have anticancer properties, including apoptosis, inhibition of proliferation, and metastasis. This review is important to provide information regarding phytochemicals of Garcinia as an alternative treatment for breast cancer patients. This article selected 28 article researches based on inclusion criteria with the keyword “Garcinia” and “Breast cancer”, in English, and available in full text and abstract searching on PubMed.

Tomato and Olive Bioactive Compounds: A Natural Shield against the Cellular Effects Induced by β-Hexachlorocyclohexane-Activated Signaling Pathways

The β-isomer of hexachlorocyclohexane (β-HCH) is a globally widespread pollutant that embodies all the physicochemical characteristics of organochlorine pesticides, constituting an environmental risk factor for a wide range of noncommunicable diseases. Previous in vitro studies from our group disclosed the carcinogenic potential of β-HCH, which contributes to neoplastic transformation by means of multifaceted intracellular mechanisms. Considering the positive evidence regarding the protective role of natural bioactive compounds against pollution-induced toxicity, micronutrients from olive and tomato endowed with the capability of modulating β-HCH cellular targets were tested. For this purpose, the solution obtained from a patented food supplement (No. EP2851080A1), referred to as Tomato and Olive Bioactive Compounds (TOBC), was administered to the androgen-sensitive prostate cancer cells LNCaP and different biochemical and cellular assays were performed to evaluate its efficiency. TOBC shows a dose-dependent significant chemoprotection by contrasting β-HCH-induced intracellular responses such as STAT3 and AhR activation, disruption of AR signaling, antiapoptotic and proliferative activity, and increase in ROS production and DNA damage. These experimental outcomes identified TOBC as a suitable functional food to be included in a diet regimen aimed at defending cells from β-HCH negative effects, recommending the development of tailored enriched formulations for exposed individuals.

Targeting STAT3: A crucial modulator of sepsis

Signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) is a cellular signal transcription factor that has recently attracted a great deal of attention. It can trigger a variety of genes transcription in response to cytokines and growth factors stimulation, which plays an important role in many cellular biological processes involved in anti/proinflammatory responses. Sepsis is a life-threatening organ dysfunction resulting from dysregulated host responses to infection. As a converging point of multiple inflammatory responses pathways, accumulating studies have presented the elaborate network of STAT3 in sepsis pathophysiology; these results generally indicate a promising therapeutic application for targeting STAT3 in the treatment of sepsis. In the present review, we evaluated the published literature describing the use of STAT3 in the treatment of experimental and clinical sepsis. The information presented here may be useful for the design of future studies and may highlight the potential of STAT3 as a future biomarker and therapeutic target for sepsis.

Targeting Multiple Signaling Pathways in Cancer: The Rutin Therapeutic Approach

Multiple dysregulated signaling pathways are implicated in the pathogenesis of cancer. The conventional therapies used in cancer prevention/treatment suffer from low efficacy, considerable toxicity, and high cost. Hence, the discovery and development of novel multi-targeted agents to attenuate the dysregulated signaling in cancer is of great importance. In recent decades, phytochemicals from dietary and medicinal plants have been successfully introduced as alternative anticancer agents due to their ability to modulate numerous oncogenic and oncosuppressive signaling pathways. Rutin (also known as rutoside, quercetin-3-O-rutinoside and sophorin) is an active plant-derived flavonoid that is widely distributed in various vegetables, fruits, and medicinal plants, including asparagus, buckwheat, apricots, apples, cherries, grapes, grapefruit, plums, oranges, and tea. Rutin has been shown to target various inflammatory, apoptotic, autophagic, and angiogenic signaling mediators, including nuclear factor-κB, tumor necrosis factor-α, interleukins, light chain 3/Beclin, B cell lymphoma 2 (Bcl-2), Bcl-2 associated X protein, caspases, and vascular endothelial growth factor. A comprehensive and critical analysis of the anticancer potential of rutin and associated molecular targets amongst various cancer types has not been performed previously. Accordingly, the purpose of this review is to present an up-to-date and critical evaluation of multiple cellular and molecular mechanisms through which the anticancer effects of rutin are known to be exerted. The current challenges and limitations as well as future directions of research are also discussed.

Physical Separation of Amphiprotic-Polar AproticS for Simultaneous Extraction and Clean-up of Clomiphene from Plasma before Liquid Chromatographic Analysis

An efficient and quantitative two phase freezing (TPF) method coupled with high performance liquid chromatography and UV-Vis detector was developed for the extraction, clean up, and determination of clomiphene citrate (CLC) in plasma samples. The separation of two miscible solvents by TPF method permits that the CLC was efficiently removed from proteins and transferred into the relative aprotic dipolar organic phase and in consequence, gave a higher recovery. The TPF method was compared to conventional liquid-liquid extraction and it gave more clean solution with better reproducibility. Linear range, limit of detection, and limit of quantification for CLC in plasma were obtained in the range of 0.06-18, 0.02, and 0.06 µg mL^-1, respectively. The intraday and interday reproducibility for concentration of 1.0 µg mL^-1 (%RSD) were 3.2% and 4.6%, respectively. In addition, the trueness, ruggedness, and reality of TPF were assessment. Finally, several real plasma samples were successfully analyzed using the developed method.

Assessment of the Usefulness of the SEMA5A Concentration Profile Changes as a Molecular Marker in Endometrial Cancer

BACKGROUND

Semaphorin 5A (SEMA5A) functions not only in the nervous system but also in cancer transformation where its role has not yet been sufficiently studied and described.

OBJECTIVE

The aim of the study was to determine the changes in SEMA5A expression in endometrial cancer at various degrees of its differentiation (G1-G3) compared to control.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The study group consisted of 45 patients with endometrial cancer at various grades: G1, 17; G2, 15; G3, 13. The control consisted of 15 women without neoplastic changes in the routine gynecological examination. The statistical analysis of immunohistochemical assessment of SEMA5A level was carried out using the Statistica 12 program based on the Kruskal-Wallis test and Dunn's post-hoc test (p<0.05).

RESULTS

The expression of SEMA5A (optical density) was observed in the control group (Me = 103.43) and in the study group (G1, Me = 140.72; G2, Me = 150.88; G3, Me = 173.77). Differences in expression between each grade and control and between individual grades turned out to be statistically significant (p<0.01). The protein level of SEMA5A expression increased with the decreasing degree of endometrial cancer differentiation.

CONCLUSION

In our research, we indicated the overexpression of SEMA5A protein in endometrial cancer. It is a valuable starting point for further consideration of the role of SEMA5A as a new supplementary molecular marker in endometrial cancer.

Molecular mechanisms of action of hesperidin in cancer: Recent trends and advancements

Hesperidin belongs to flavanones class of flavonoids and is known to possess broad-spectrum applicability to prevent dreadful diseases such as cardiovascular disease, neurodegeneration, and cancer. The reported anticancer effects of hesperidin have been found to be associated with its anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory activities. Hesperidin interacts with numerous recognized cellular targets and inhibits cancer cell proliferation by inducing apoptosis and cell cycle arrest. In addition, evidence has suggested its promising role in inhibiting tumor cell metastasis, angiogenesis, and chemoresistance. The present mini-review highlights the ongoing development to identify hesperidin targets in cancer. Furthermore, the potential of nano technology-based hesperidin combinations and delivery systems will also be discussed. Overall, this review highlights all the possible molecular targets affected by hesperidin in tumor cells on a single platform.

Impact statement

Experimental findings from numerous studies have demonstrated the anticancer effects of hesperidin (Hesp) to be associated with anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory activities along with its potential role in inhibiting the tumor cell metastasis and angiogenesis. Additionally, Hesp can also reverse drug resistance of cancer cells, which make it a promising candidate to be used in combination with existing anti-cancer drugs. This review will be helpful for upcoming researchers and scientific community to find out complete capsular package about cancer drug targets of Hesp and its role in modulating various important hallmarks of cancer.

Structure, Genome, Infection Cycle and Clinical Manifestations Associated with Human Papillomavirus

A small, non-enveloped, obligatory parasite, Human papillomavirus (HPV) is known to be the cause of a range of malignancies. These entail benign infections like genital warts as well as malignant, life-threatening conditions such as cervical cancer. Since a very high mortality rate is associated with HPV caused cancers (cervical cancer is a 2nd leading cause of death caused due to cancer among women globally), there is an escalating need to understand and search for ways to combat such medical conditions. Under the same light, the given article provides an insight into the world of this versatile pathogen. Distinct aspects related to HPV have been discussed here. Emphasis has been laid upon the composition, function and assembly of capsid proteins (structural studies) and various genetic elements and their gene products (genomic studies). The essence of the mechanism behind the development of persistent infection and modes responsible for the transmission of the infectious particles has been briefly covered. Finally, the review outlines various infections and diseases caused by HPV with a major focus on their clinical and histological manifestations.

Tailoring synthetic polymeric biomaterials towards nerve tissue engineering: a review

The nervous system is known as a crucial part of the body and derangement in this system can cause potentially lethal consequences or serious side effects. Unfortunately, the nervous system is unable to rehabilitate damaged regions following seriously debilitating disorders such as stroke, spinal cord injury and brain trauma which, in turn, lead to the reduction of quality of life for the patient. Major challenges in restoring the damaged nervous system are low regenerative capacity and the complexity of physiology system. Synthetic polymeric biomaterials with outstanding properties such as excellent biocompatibility and non-immunogenicity find a wide range of applications in biomedical fields especially neural implants and nerve tissue engineering scaffolds. Despite these advancements, tailoring polymeric biomaterials for design of a desired scaffold is fundamental issue that needs tremendous attention to promote the therapeutic benefits and minimize adverse effects. This review aims to (i) describe the nervous system and related injuries. Then, (ii) nerve tissue engineering strategies are discussed and (iii) physiochemical properties of synthetic polymeric biomaterials systematically highlighted. Moreover, tailoring synthetic polymeric biomaterials for nerve tissue engineering is reviewed.

The Antipsychotic Agent Sertindole Exhibited Antiproliferative Activities by Inhibiting the STAT3 Signaling Pathway in Human Gastric Cancer Cells

Gastric cancer (GC) is the third leading cause of cancer-related death. Although the therapeutic approaches have improved, the 5-year survival rate of GC patients after surgical resection remains low due to the high rates of metastasis and recurrence. Patients with schizophrenia have significantly lower incidences of cancer after long-term drug treatment, suggesting the potential or partially ameliorate the risk of cancer development of antipsychotic drugs. The goal of this study was to explore antipsychotic drugs with an optional effective therapy against gastric cellular carcinoma. We found that sertindole, an atypical antipsychotic, exhibited anti-tumor efficacy on human GC cells in vitro and in vivo. Moreover, sertindole in combination with cisplatin dramatically enhanced apoptosis-induction in GC cells. In addition, the pro-apoptotic effect of sertindole on GC might in part, involved in inhibition of STAT3 activation and downstream signals, including Mcl1, surviving, c-Myc, cyclin D1. Collectively, these results suggested that sertindole could be a potential anticancer reagent and be an attractive therapeutic adjuvant for the treatment of human GC.

The Synergistic Effect of Glucagon-Like Peptide-1 and Chamomile Oil on Differentiation of Mesenchymal Stem Cells into Insulin-Producing Cells

OBJECTIVE

Glucagon-like peptide-1 (GLP-1) has attracted tremendous attention for treatment of diabetes. Likewise, it seems that active ingredients of chamomile oil might have anti-diabetic effects. This work was conducted to investigate the effects of the combination of GLP-1 and chamomile oil on differentiation of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) into functional insulin-producing cells (IPCs).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this experimental study, adipose MSCs derived from the adult male New Zealand white rabbits were assigned into four groups: control (without any treatment); GLP-1 (in which cells were treated with 10 nM GLP-1 every other day for 5 days); chamomile oil (in which cells were treated with 100 ug/ml Matricaria chamomilla L. flower oil every other day for 5 days); and GLP-1+ chamomile oil (in which cells were treated with 10 nM GLP-1 and 100 μg/ml M. chamomilla flower oil every other day for 5 days). Characterization of isolated MSCs was performed using flow cytometry, Alizarin red S staining and Oil red O staining. The expressions of genes specific for IPCs were measured using reverse transcriptase-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) assay. Measurement of insulin and the cleaved connecting peptide (C-peptide) in response to different concentrations of glucose, were performed using ELISA kits.

RESULTS

Our results demonstrated that isolated cells highly expressed MSC markers and were able to differentiate into osteocytes and adipocytes. Additionally, using GLP-1 in combination with chamomile oil exhibited higher levels of IPCs gene markers including NK homeobox gene 2.2 (NKX-2.2), paired box gene 4 (PAX4), insulin (INS) and pancreatic duodenal homeobox-1 (PDX1) as well as insulin and C-peptide secretion in response to different glucose concentrations compared to GLP-1 or chamomile oil alone (P<0.05).

CONCLUSION

Collectively, these findings establish a substantial foundation for using peptides in combination with natural products to obtain higher efficiency in regenerative medicine and peptide therapy.

Direct Targeting Options for STAT3 and STAT5 in Cancer

Signal transducer and activator of transcription (STAT)3 and STAT5 are important transcription factors that are able to mediate or even drive cancer progression through hyperactivation or gain-of-function mutations. Mutated STAT3 is mainly associated with large granular lymphocytic T-cell leukemia, whereas mutated STAT5B is associated with T-cell prolymphocytic leukemia, T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia and γδ T-cell-derived lymphomas. Hyperactive STAT3 and STAT5 are also implicated in various hematopoietic and solid malignancies, such as chronic and acute myeloid leukemia, melanoma or prostate cancer. Classical understanding of STAT functions is linked to their phosphorylated parallel dimer conformation, in which they induce gene transcription. However, the functions of STAT proteins are not limited to their phosphorylated dimerization form. In this review, we discuss the functions and the roles of unphosphorylated STAT3/5 in the context of chromatin remodeling, as well as the impact of STAT5 oligomerization on differential gene expression in hematopoietic neoplasms. The central involvement of STAT3/5 in cancer has made these molecules attractive targets for small-molecule drug development, but currently there are no direct STAT3/5 inhibitors of clinical grade available. We summarize the development of inhibitors against the SH2 domains of STAT3/5 and discuss their applicability as cancer therapeutics.

Conditioned medium obtained from human amniotic membrane-derived mesenchymal stem cell attenuates heart failure injury in rats

OBJECTIVES

Heart failure (HF) is one of the leading causes of death worldwide. Due to beneficial effects of stem cells, paracrine secretion of them has recently been used by researchers. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of intravenous injection (IV) of conditioned medium (CM) of human amniotic membrane-derived mesenchymal stem cell (MSC-CM) on HF.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Male Wistar rats (n=35, 180 g) were randomly divided into five groups: sham, HF, HF+MSC-CM, HF+culture medium and HF+phosphate-buffered saline (PBS). To induce HF, isoproterenol (170 mg/kg/d) was injected subcutaneously for 4 consecutive days. After 28 days, induction of HF was evaluated by echocardiography. A day after echocardiography, 50 μg culture medium/5 ml PBS in HF+culture medium group, 50 μg MSC-CM/5 ml PBS in HF+MSC-CM group and 5 ml PBS in HF+PBS group were injected two times for 4 successive days. The echocardiography was performed 4 weeks after the last injection of isoproterenol. To evaluate the fibrosis, morphology, and cardiac function, Trichrome Masson's staining, Hematoxylin and Eosin staining and echocardiography were performed, respectively.

RESULTS

CM significantly increased fractional shortening and ejection fraction, and also significantly decreased apoptotic nuclear condensation. Moreover, significant decreased level of fibrosis and increased level of angiogenesis was observed in the treatment group (P<0.05).

CONCLUSION

Our results indicated that IV injection of CM has therapeutic effects on HF by reducing fibrosis and preventing the progression of failure due to its paracrine effects.

Conditioned medium obtained from human amniotic mesenchymal stem cells attenuates focal cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury in rats by targeting mTOR pathway

Conditioned medium obtained from human amniotic mesenchymal stem cells (hAMSC-CM) was recently shown to have many antioxidant, antiapoptotic and proangiogenic growth factors. The present study was performed to investigate whether protective effects of hAMSC-CM against focal cerebral ischemia/ reperfusion (I/R) injury is associated with modulation of the mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) pathway. A rat model of middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) was created and the animals were divided into three groups including sham, MCAO and MCAO + hAMSC-CM. Drug was administrated immediately after cerebral reperfusion (i.v). The expressions of mTOR, p-mTOR and LC3 were measured using Western blotting and real time-PCR, respectively. Apoptosis and neuronal loss were determined using TUNEL and Nissl staining, respectively. Infarct volume and the blood-brain barrier (BBB) damage were evaluated using 2,3,5-triphenyltetrazolium chloride (TTC) staining and Evans Blue (EB) uptake, respectively. Compared with sham, significant infarct volume, apoptotic cell death, and neuronal loss were found in MCAO rats that reversed by hAMSC-CM (P < 0.05). Likewise, MCAO rats exhibited increased mRNA level of light-chain 3 (LC3) and the LC3II/LC3I ratio as well as decreased expression level of p-mTOR that reversed by hAMSC-CM (P < 0.05). There were no significant differences in the expression of total mTOR among the experimental groups. In summary, our results demonstrate that hAMSC-CM gives rise to neuroprotection following ischemic stroke by restoring mTOR activity and inhibiting autophagy.

Would Colloidal Gold Nanocarriers Present An Effective Diagnosis Or Treatment For Ischemic Stroke?

INTRODUCTION

This study was conducted to evaluate OX26-PEG-coated gold nanoparticles (GNPs) (OX26@GNPs) as a novel targeted nanoparticulate system on cell survival after ischemic stroke.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Dynamic light scattering (DLS), zeta sizer, and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) were performed to characterize the OX26@GNPs. The effect of OX26@GNPs on infarct volume, neuronal loss, and necroptosis was evaluated 24 h after reperfusion using 2, 3,5-Triphenyltetrazolium chloride (TTC) staining, Nissl staining and Western blot assay, respectively.

RESULTS

Conjugation of OX26-PEG to the surface of the 25 nm colloidal gold particles increased their size to 32±2 nm, while a zeta potential change of -40.4 to 3.40 mV remarkably increased the stability of the nanoparticles. Most importantly, OX26@GNPs significantly increased the infarcted brain tissue, while bare GNPs and PEGylated GNPs had no effect on the infarct volume. However, our results indicated an extension of necroptotic cell death, followed by cell membrane damage.

CONCLUSION

Collectively, our results showed that the presently formulated OX26@GNPs are not suitable nanocarriers nor contrast agents under oxidative stress for the diagnosis and treatment of ischemic stroke. Moreover, our findings suggest that the cytotoxicity of GNPs in the brain is significantly associated with their surface charge.

Troxerutin exerts neuroprotection against lipopolysaccharide (LPS) induced oxidative stress and neuroinflammation through targeting SIRT1/SIRT3 signaling pathway

This study was conducted to clarify the potential mechanisms of Troxerutin neuroprotection against Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) induced oxidative stress and neuroinflammation through targeting the SIRT1/SIRT3 signaling pathway. To establish a model, a single dose of LPS (500μg/kg body weight) was injected to male Wistar rats intraperitoneally. Troxerutin (100 mg/kg body weight) was injected intraperitoneally for 5 days after induction of the model. Cognitive and behavioral evaluations were performed using Y-maze, single-trial passive avoidance, and novel object recognition tests. The expression of inflammatory mediators, SIRT1/SIRT3, and P53 was measured using the ELISA assay. Likewise, the expression levels of SIRT1/SIRT3 and NF-κB were determined using Western blot assay. Brain acetyl-cholinesterase activity was determined by utilizing the method of Ellman. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) was detected using Fluorescent probe 2, 7-dichlorofluorescein diacetate (DCFH-DA). Furthermore, malondialdehyde (MDA) levels were determined. A single intraperitoneal injection of LPS was led to ROS production, acute neuroinflammation, apoptotic cell death, and inactivation of the SIRT1/SIRT3 signaling pathway. Likewise, ELISA assay demonstrated that post-treatment with Troxerutin considerably suppressed LPS-induced acute neuroinflammation, oxidative stress, apoptosis and subsequently memory impairments by targeting SIRT1/SIRT3 signaling pathway. Western blot assay confirmed ELISA results about SIRT1/SIRT3 and NF-κB proteins. These results suggest that Troxerutin can be a suitable candidate to treat neuroinflammation caused by neurodegenerative disorders.

High-dose vitamin C suppresses the invasion and metastasis of breast cancer cells via inhibiting epithelial-mesenchymal transition

Purpose

Vitamin C (VC) is a kind of essential nutrient in the body regarded as a canonical antioxidant during the past hundred years. However, the anti-cancer effect of VC is controversial. Our study is trying to clarify the relationship between VC dosage and breast cancer metastasis.

Methods

Human breast cancer cell lines Bcap37 and MDA-MB-453 were treated with VC at three different concentrations (low-dose, 0.01 mM; medium-dose, 0.1 mM; high-dose, 2 mM). Wound healing assays were conducted for migration assay; transwell tests were performed to detect the ability of cell invasion. The protein levels were evaluated by Western blot analysis or immunohistochemistry. Tumor xenografts in nude mice were built to test the effects of VC on breast cancer cell proliferation and metastasis.

Results

0.01 and 0.1 mM VC promoted cell migration and invasion when compared with the control group, but 2 mM VC significantly suppressed cell migration and invasion of breast cancer cell lines. High-dose VC increased E-cadherin and reduced Vimentin, indicating that high-dose VC suppressed epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) in breast cancer cells. Besides, high-dose VC inhibited cell invasion promoted by TGF-β1 in breast cancer cells. Meanwhile, high-dose VC reversed the suppression of E-cadherin and enhancement of Vimentin induced by TGF-β1 in breast cancer cells. Furthermore, high-dose VC significantly inhibited breast cancer metastasis in vivo.

Conclusion

High-dose VC inhibits cell migration and invasion of breast cancer cell lines through suppressing EMT. Thus, it may be considered as an anticancer drug candidate for breast cancer patients.

The Combination of Dimorphandra gardneriana Galactomannan and Mangiferin Inhibits Herpes Simplex and Poliovirus

BACKGROUND

Herpes simplex virus (HSV) and poliovirus (PV) are both agents of major concern in the public health system. It has been shown that Dimorphandra gardneriana galactomannans can be used as solubilizer vehicles in the manufacturing of medicine. Mangiferin is the major constituent of Mangifera indica and presents multiple medicinal and biological activities.

OBJECTIVE

This study assayed the effect of D. gardneriana galactomannan combined with mangiferin (DgGmM) against HSV-1 and PV-1.

METHODS

The DgGmM cytotoxicity was evaluated by the colorimetric MTT method and the antiviral activity by plaque reduction assay, immunofluorescence and polymerase chain reaction (PCR), in HEp-2 cells.

RESULTS

The DgGmM showed a 50% cytotoxic concentration (CC50) > 2000 µg/mL. The 50% inhibitory concentrations (IC50) for HSV-1 and PV-1 were, respectively, 287.5 µg/mL and 206.2 µg/mL, with selectivity indexes (SI) > 6.95 for the former and > 9.69 for the latter. The DgGmM time-ofaddition protocol for HSV-1 showed a maximum inhibition at 500 µg/mL, when added concomitantly to infection and at the time 1 h post-infection (pi). While for PV-1, for the same protocol, the greatest inhibition, was also observed concomitantly to infection at 500 μg/mL and at the times 4 h and 8 h pi. The inhibition was also demonstrated by the decrease of fluorescent cells and/or the inhibition of specific viral genome.

CONCLUSION

These results suggested that the DgGmM inhibited HSV-1 and PV-1 replication, with low cytotoxicity and high selectivity and, therefore, represents a potential candidate for further studies on the control of herpes and polio infections.

The mechanism and tumor inhibitory study of Lagopsis supine ethanol extract on colorectal cancer in nude mice

Background

This study was aimed to determination the tumor inhibitory effect and explore the potential mechanisms of Lagopsis supine ethanol extract (Ls) on colorectal cancer.

Methods

The cell growth inhibition experiment of Ls in colorectal cancer cell lines was determined by MTT method in the time course of 24, 48 and 72 h in four gradient drug concentrations. The protein expression levels of pSTAT3, pJAK2, STAT3, JAK2, Bcl-2 and caspase 3 were measured by Western blot method. The mRNA levels of the downstream genes of STAT3 were detected through semi-quantitative RT PCR. Sixty Balb/c-nude mice were xenograft with HCT116 colorectal cancer cells through subcutaneously. The xenografts were divided into five groups: model group, positive group (capecitabine 300 mg/kg) and three dosages of Ls treated groups (75, 150 and 300 mg/kg). Tumor size and tumor weight were calculated for evaluation the anti-tumor effects. H & E staining and immunohistochemical analysis were used to determine the histopathological changes and the levels of pSTAT3 and pJAK2 in the tumor tissues.

Results

Ls exhibited a significant anti-proliferation effect in HCT116 and SW480 cells in vitro. The protein levels of pSTAT3, pJAK2 and Bcl-2, and the mRNA levels of Bcl-2 and Bak notably reduced with a dose-dependent manner. While the protein levels of caspase 3, and mRNA levels of Bax and caspase-3 remarkably increased in the gradient dosage of Ls in HCT116 cells. HCT116 in vivo xenografts experiment showed that the growth of the tumors significantly inhibited by Ls administration, which with no any significant body weight changes in each experiment group. The histopathology analysis displayed that Ls significantly reduced the inflammatory cells in tumor tissue. Furthermore, Ls also significantly down-regulate the protein levels of pSTAT3 and pJAK2 in the tumor tissues, compared with the model group.

Conclusions

This work shows that Ls inhibited the cell proliferation of colorectal cancer in vitro and significantly reduced the tumor growth in HCT116 xenografts in vivo, which is probably related with the JAK/STAT signal pathway.

Targeting necroptotic cell death pathway by high-intensity interval training (HIIT) decreases development of post-ischemic adverse remodelling after myocardial ischemia / reperfusion injury

Regulated necrosis (necroptosis) plays a pivotal role in the extent of cardiomyocyte loss and the development of post-ischemic adverse remodelling and cardiac dysfunction following myocardial I/R injury. Although HIIT has been reported to give rise to cardioprotection against MI, but the detailed knowledge of its molecular targets for treatment of MI is still not available. The LAD of Male Wistar rats was occluded to induce MI for 30 min and reperfusion for eight weeks. We investigated the effect of long-term HIIT for eight weeks on lipid peroxidation, SOD activity and GSH content using ELISA assay. Cardiac function, fibrosis, and infarct size were assessed by echocardiography, Masson's trichrome and Evans Blue/TTC dual staining respectively. The expressions of gene markers of myocardial hypertrophy, fibrosis and key mediators of necroptosis were measured using RT-PCR and western blotting assay respectively. The results indicated that HIIT reduced lipid peroxidation, infarct size and improved endogenous antioxidant system and heart function. Significant decreases in mRNA levels of procollagen α1(I), α1(III), and fibronectin1were observed following HIIT. Moreover, that HIIT significantly decreased the expression of key mediators of necroptosis induced by MI (P < 0.05). There were no significant differences in β-MHC mRNA level in different groups. The findings of study suggest that HIIT might exert cardioprotective effects against post-ischemic adverse remodeling through targeting necroptosis process. Likewise, cardioprotective effects of HIIT in coping with myocardial I/R injury may be associated with RIP1-RIP3-MLKL axis. These findings establish a critical foundation for higher efficiency of exercise-based cardiac rehabilitation post-MI and future research.

Stem extract of Tabebuia chrysantha induces apoptosis by targeting sEGFR in Ehrlich Ascites Carcinoma

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

The plant Tabebuia chrysantha (Jaq.) Nicholson (Bignoniaceae) is commonly known as "Golden Goddess" in the Southern part of India and "Golden Trumpet Tree " in Central America. Stems of this plant have been traditionally used for antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial and anticancer actions.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To evaluate the antitumor activity of methanol extract of Tabebuia chrysantha stem (METC).

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The in vivo antitumor potential of METC against Ehrlich Ascites Carcinoma (EAC) in Swiss albino mice was assessed by evaluating tumor volume, viable and nonviable tumor cell count, tumor weight, hematological parameters, biochemical parameters, and antioxidant parameters. The in vitro antitumor potential of METC at different concentrations (100, 200, 400, 800, 1000) µg/mL has been evaluated, by using the MTT [3-(4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-diphenyltetrazolium bromide] and Trypan blue dilution assay for a period of 3 h treatment. Before that, the crude extract was pre-screened for cytotoxicity property using Brine shrimp lethality bioassay.

RESULTS

Phytoconstituents 2-Hydroxynaphthalene-1,4-dione, β-lapachone and 2-((dimethylamino)methyl)-3-methoxynaphthalene-1,4-dione were isolated from the METC. Their occurrence and structures were determined by HPLC chromatography, UV spectroscopy, and 1D and ²D NMR spectroscopies respectively. The extract showed a direct cytotoxic effect on EAC cells in a dose-dependent manner with IG₅₀ value 463.27 µg/mL in MTT assay and 443.58 µg/mL in trypan blue dilution assay. The METC (300 mg/kg) and 5-FU (30 mg/kg) exhibited significant (p < 0.001) decrease in tumor volume, tumor weight and viable cell count of EAC-treated mice. Also, hematological profile, tissue parameters such as lipid peroxidation, reduced glutathione, superoxide dismutase, and catalase were reverted to the normal levels compared to the EAC control group. The Western blotting analysis demonstrated apoptosis of carcinoma was due to inhibition of soluble epidermal growth factor receptor proteins (sEGFR) expression in the blood.

CONCLUSION

The antitumor potential of the stem extract of T chrysantha was due to naphthaquinones and polyphenol content in the crude extract and so T chrysantha could be a cytotoxic plant to control tumor growth.

Selenium nanoparticles for targeted stroke therapy through modulation of inflammatory and metabolic signaling

Ischemic cerebral stroke is a major cause of death and morbidity. Currently, no neuroprotective agents have been shown to impact the clinical outcomes in cerebral stroke cases. Here, we report therapeutic effects of Se nanoparticles on ischemic stroke in a murine model. Anti-transferrin receptor monoclonal antibody (OX26)-PEGylated Se nanoparticles (OX26-PEG-Se NPs) were designed and synthesized and their neuroprotective effects were measured using in vitro and in vivo approaches. We demonstrate that administration of the biodegradable nanoparticles leads to resolution of brain edema, protection of axons in hippocampus region, and myelination of hippocampal area after cerebral ischemic stroke. Our nanoparticle design ensures efficient targeting and minimal side effects. Hematological and biochemical analyses revealed no undesired NP-induced changes. To gain mechanistic insights into the therapeutic effects of these particles, we characterized the changes to the relevant inflammatory and metabolic signaling pathways. We assessed metabolic regulator mTOR and related signaling pathways such as hippo, Ubiquitin-proteasome system (ERK5), Tsc1/Tsc2 complex, FoxO1, wnt/β-catenine signaling pathway. Moreover, we examined the activity of jak2/stat3 signaling pathways and Adamts1, which are critically involved in inflammation. Together, our study provides a promising treatment strategy for cerebral stroke based on Se NP induced suppression of excessive inflammation and oxidative metabolism.

The effects of N-acetylcysteine on radiotherapy-induced small intestinal damage in rats

IMPACT STATEMENT

Some six million cancer patients currently receive radiotherapy. Radiotherapy eliminates cancer cells by accelerating their death. However, radiotherapy is not selective, and it therefore harms healthy tissues around cancerous tissue. The latest studies have shown that the irradiation of biological materials causes a rapid increase in reactive oxygen species (ROS) in the tissue as a result of exposure of the target molecule to direct and indirect ionization. N-acetylcysteine (NAC) is an antioxidant that permits the elimination of free oxygen radicals and that contributes to glutathione synthesis. Our study, therefore, examined the effects of radiation resulting from radiotherapy on the small intestine at the molecular level, and prospectively considered the potential protective characteristics of NAC against gastrointestinal syndrome resulting from radiotherapy.

Combination therapy profoundly improved skin flap survival by modulating KATP channels and nitric oxide

PURPOSE

A potential therapeutic approach on skin flap necrosis is to target parallel pathways involved in necrosis. Azelaic Acid, Minoxidil and Caffeine combination was tried on skin flap survival by their possible interaction with ATP sensitive potassium (KATP) channels and nitric oxide pathway.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Sprauge-Dawley rats were divided into 8 groups for skin flap surgery. Azelaic acid, minoxidil, caffeine, or their combination were applied topically in different groups. Two additional groups were treated with L-NAME or glibenclamide in addition to the combination therapy. Percentage of flap necrosis was calculated and flap samples were removed to measure tissue malondialdehyde (MDA) and nitric oxide (NO) and expression of inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS), Bcl-2 and Bax proteins.

RESULTS

Combination therapy profoundly decreased skin flap necrosis, tissue MDA contents, and expression of the pro-apoptotic protein Bax (p < 0.05 vs. single treatments). These effects were reversed by L-NAME and glibenclamide pre-treatments. Further evaluations showed combination therapy increases flap tissue NO content and iNOS expression (p < 0.05 vs. single treatments).

CONCLUSION

Beneficial effect of the combination therapy with azelaic acid, minoxidil and caffeine therapy on rescuing the flap from necrosis by targeting parallel signaling pathways suggested potential applications in clinical practice.

Comparative Evaluation of Conventional and Novel Extracts of Stem Bark of Terminalia arjuna for Antihypertensive Activity in BSO Induced Oxidative Stress based Rat Model

BACKGROUND

Terminalia arjuna (TA) has been reported and explored traditionally for its cardiotonic properties while the mechanism of antihypertensive effect of TA has not been clearly reported.

METHOD

The oxidative stress is a major cause for hypertension, hence different extracts of TA having variable marker yield were evaluated for their antihypertensive effect in buthionine sulfoxamine (BSO) induced oxidative stress based model. Soxhlet extraction (SE), room temperature extraction (RTE), microwave assisted extraction (MAE), and ultrasound assisted extraction (USAE) were quantitatively estimated for marker compounds arjunolic acid and arjunic acid through HPTLC.

RESULTS

The hypertension was induced using buthionine sulfoxamine (2 mmol/kg b.w. i.p.) and results suggested that the MAE and USAE showed better recovery of systolic blood pressure (110.33±0.10 and 118.33±0.10) and GSH level (3.62±0.07 nmoles/mL and 3.22±0.13 nmoles/mL), respectively as compared to the positive control group treated with ascorbic acid (Systolic BP: 119.67±0.10, GSH level: 3.11±0.10 nmoles/mL). The RTE and SE also showed a decrease in hypertension but were having moderate effect as compared with the standard positive control.

CONCLUSION

The total percentage yield, the yield of the marker compounds arjunolic and arjunic acid, the IC50 values for antioxidant activity as well as the antihypertensive effect were in order: MAE>USAE>SE>RTE that suggested the role of biomarkers arjunolic acid and arjunic acid in reversing the effect of buthionine sulfoxamine.

Mesenchymal stem cells from human amniotic membrane differentiate into cardiomyocytes and endothelial-like cells without improving cardiac function after surgical administration in rat model of chronic heart failure

Introduction: Human amnion-derived mesenchymal stem cells (hAMSCs) have been used in the treatment of acute myocardial infarction. In the current study, we investigated the efficacy of hAMSCs for the treatment of chronic model of myocardial ischemia and heart failure (HF) in rats. Methods: Male Wistar rats weighing between 250 to 350 g were randomized into three groups: sham, HF control and HF+hAMSCs. For HF induction, animals were anesthetized and underwent left anterior descending artery ligation. In HF+hAMSCs group, 2×106 cells were injected into the left ventricular muscle four weeks post ischemia in the border zone of the ischemic area. Cardiac function was studied using echocardiography. Masson's trichrome staining was used for studying tissue fibrosis. Cells were transduced with green fluorescent protein (GFP) coding lentiviral vector. Immunohistochemistry was used for detecting GFP, vascular-endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and troponin T markers in the tissue sections. Results: Assessment of the cardiac function revealed no improvement in the myocardial function compared to the control HF group. Moreover, tissue fibrosis was similar in two groups. Immunohistochemical study revealed the homing of the injected hAMSCs to the myocardium. Cells were stained positive for VEGF and troponin T markers. Conclusion: injection of hAMSCs 4 weeks after ischemia does not improve cardiac function and cardiac muscle fibrosis, although the cells show markers of differentiation into vascular endothelial cells and cardiomyocytes. In sum, it appears that hAMSCs are effective in the early phases of myocardial ischemia and does not offer a significant advantage in patients with chronic HF.

Are polyphenol antioxidants at the root of medicinal plant anti-cancer success?

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Given the severe side effects associated with most of the conventional cancer medications, as well as the expanding body of evidence indicating secondary toxicity of these drugs, individuals with cancer are increasingly turning to natural alternatives. Similarly, the pharmaceutical industry is in search of natural products to treat cancer. An understanding of the specific active components in plant products with which anti-cancer efficacy is achieved is required for this research to move forward.

AIM OF THE STUDY

To integrate data from cancer-relatestudies on plant-derived products or extracts, to elucidate whether these products may have similar active ingredients and/or mechanisms of action, that can explain their efficacy. This review also includes a discussion of the methodological complexities and important considerations involved in accurate isolation and characterisation of active substances from plant material.

CONCLUSIONS

From the literature reviewed, most plant products with consistently reported anti-cancer efficacy contains high levels of polyphenols or other potent antioxidants and their mechanisms of action correlate to that reported for isolated antioxidants in the context of cancer. This suggests that natural products may indeed become the panacea against this chronic disease - either as therapeutic medicine strategy or to serve as templates for the design of novel synthetic drugs. The recommendation is made that antioxidant activity of plant actives and especially polyphenols, should be the focus of anti-cancer drug discovery initiatives. Lastly, researchers are advised to exploit current techniques of chemical compound characterisation when investigating polyphenol-rich plants to enable the easy consolidation of research findings from different laboratories.

Lavender oil (Lavandula angustifolia) attenuates renal ischemia/reperfusion injury in rats through suppression of inflammation, oxidative stress and apoptosis

Renal ischemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury following kidney transplantation has been found to be a great clinical problem owing to initiation of acute inflammatory responses and subsequently rapid loss of kidney function. It is well known that lavender oil exhibits an extensive spectrum of pharmacological and biochemical activities. The purpose of this study was to clarify molecular targets of lavender in treatment of this disease. Male Wistar rats weighing 200-250 g were divided into three major groups: sham, I/R, and I/R + different doses of lavender oil (L1:50 mg/kg, L2: 100 mg/kg, and L3: 200 mg/kg). A rat model of renal I/R (45 min ischemia and 24 h reperfusion) was created and lavender was administrated at 1 h after the beginning of reperfusion (i.p). Activities of antioxidant enzymes such as SOD, GPX, and CAT, and lipid peroxidation were evaluated. The expression of inflammatory cytokines such as TNFα, IL1β, and IL10 was determined by IHC and ELISA assay. Apoptosis activity and tissue damage were evaluated by TUNEL and H & E staining, respectively. Our results showed that lavender oil markedly restored activities of antioxidant enzymes and reduced lipid peroxidation (P < 0.05). Lavender significantly decreased levels of TNFα and IL1β and increased level of IL10 in a dose-dependent manner (P < 0.05). Lavender reduced TUNEL positive cells in a dose-dependent manner. However, lavender reduced damage to peritubular capillaries and contributed to preservation of normal morphology of renal cells. In sum, our findings establish a fundamental foundation for future drug industry to decrease the rates of rejection in kidney transplant patients.

The effects of superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles-labeled mesenchymal stem cells in the presence of a magnetic field on attenuation of injury after heart failure

Migration of stem cells after transplantation reduces their therapeutic effects. In this study, we hypothesized that superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPION)-labeled mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) in the presence of magnetic field may have a capability to increase regenerative ability after heart failure (HF). A rat model of ISO (isoproterenol)-HF was established to investigate the effects of SPION-labeled MSCs on tissue regeneration in the presence and absence of magnetic field. Hydrodynamic size, shape, and formation of chemical bonds between SPION and polyethylene glycol (PEG) were measured using dynamic light scattering (DLS), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The MRI was used to monitor SPION-labeled MSCs in vivo. Cell and tissue uptake of nanoparticles were determined by Prussian blue staining, atomic absorption spectroscopy (AAS), and inductively coupled plasma spectroscopy (ICP). Purity of the MSCs, heart function, myocardial fibrosis, and histologic damage were evaluated using flow-cytometry, echocardiography, Masson's trichrome, and H&E staining respectively. Various spectroscopic and microscopic analyses revealed that hydrodynamic size of SPION was 40 ± 2 and their shape was spherical. FTIR confirmed the presence of PEG on the surface of nanoparticles. The presence of magnetic field significantly increased cell homing. Highly purified MSCs population was detected by flow-cytometry. Using SPION-labeled MSCs in the presence of magnetic field markedly improved heart function and myocardial hypertrophy and reduced fibrosis (p < 0.05). Collectively, our results demonstrated that SPION-labeled MSCs in the presence of magnetic field might contribute to regeneration after HF.

The membrane mesenchymal stem cell derived conditioned medium exerts neuroprotection against focal cerebral ischemia by targeting apoptosis

OBJECTIVE

The mesenchymal stem cells derived from human amniotic membrane have the ability to secrete and release some factors that can promote the repair of damaged tissues. This secretome contains proteins and factors that reduce apoptosis and increase angiogenesis in the ischemia/reperfusion models. The present study was conducted to determine whether this secretome provides protection against transient focal cerebral ischemia.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A rat model of focal cerebral ischemia was established through middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) for 60 min and 24 h reperfusion. The amniotic mesenchymal stem cells-conditioned medium (AMSC-CM) at the dose of 0.5 μl was injected intracerebroventriculary (ICV) 30 min after reperfusion. Infarct volume, brain edema, neurobehavioral functions, and blood brain barrier (BBB) integrity were assessed 24 h after reperfusion. Neuronal loss and expression of caspase-3, Bax and Bcl-2 in motor cortex were evaluated by nissl staining and immunohistochemistry assay respectively.

RESULTS

ICV administration of AMSC-CM markedly reduced infarct volume, brain edema and the evans blue penetration rate compared with MCAO group (P < 0.05). Additionally, post-treatment with AMSC-CM significantly reduced neuronal loss, neurological motor disorders and expression of caspase-3, Bax and Bcl-2 in motor cortex compared with MCAO group (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

The results of this study indicate that treatment with AMSC-CM improves the pathological effects in the acute phase of cerebral ischemia. These findings establish a substantial foundation for stroke therapy and future research.

Natural lavender oil (Lavandula angustifolia) exerts cardioprotective effects against myocardial infarction by targeting inflammation and oxidative stress

BACKGROUND

The study was conducted to examine therapeutic effects of lavender oil (LO) against myocardial infarction (MI) and its potential mechanisms.

METHODS

A rat model of MI was established and LO (100, 200 and 300 mg/kg) was intraperitoneally administrated immediately after ischemia. Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activity of LO were evaluated by immunohistochemical assay and measurement of SOD, GSH, and MDA. The myocardial injury markers, apoptotic activity and infarct volume were examined by ELISA, TUNEL and TTC staining, respectively.

RESULTS

Compared with the control I/R-Vehicle, the expression of tumor necrosis factor-α (TNF-α) and interleukin-1β (IL-1β) significantly reduced 8 h after reperfusion and expression of interleukin-10 (IL-10) elevated 48 h after reperfusion in LO-treated rats (P < 0.05). Likewise, significant decreases in apoptotic activity, infarct volume and significant restoration of antioxidant endogenous defenses were observed in LO-treated rats (P < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

Collectively, these findings confirm that LO can be a good candidate to reduce injury after MI.

Antioxidant nanomaterials in advanced diagnoses and treatments of ischemia reperfusion injuries

Organ ischemia with inadequate oxygen supply followed by reperfusion (which initiates a complex of inflammatory responses and oxidative stress) occurs in different clinical conditions and surgical procedures including stroke, myocardial infarction, limb ischemia, renal failure, organ transplantation, free-tissue-transfer, cardiopulmonary bypass, and vascular surgery. Even though pharmacological treatments protect against experimental ischemia reperfusion (I/R) injury, there has not been enough success in their application for patient benefits. The main hurdles in the treatment of I/R injury are the lack of diagnosis tools for understanding the complicated chains of I/R-induced signaling events, especially in the acute phase after ischemia, determining the affected regions of the tissue over time, and then, targeting and safe delivery of antioxidants, drugs, peptides, genes and cells to the areas requiring treatment. Besides the innate antioxidant and free radical scavenging properties, some nanoparticles also show higher flexibility in drug delivery and imaging. This review highlights three main approaches in nanoparticle-mediated targeting of I/R injury: nanoparticles (1) as antioxidants for reducing tissue oxidative stress, (2) for targeted delivery of therapeutic agents to the ischemic regions or cells, and (3) for imaging I/R injury at the molecular, cellular or tissue level and monitoring its evolution using contrasts induced by nanoparticles. These approaches can also be combined to realize so called theranostics for providing simultaneous diagnosis of ischemic regions and treatments by targeted delivery.